Explore new Web site features
New this year is a feature that provides details on each region's air transport needs. Just click on the region you would like to explore in the map above. You will also find a detailed database of forecast data that allows you to select just the data or regions you are interested in, and then download a full dataset for those regions. Use the links in the right panel of each page to access these features.
Regional distinctions
Every world region has its unique drivers and characteristics. Even the most developed air transport markets -- which many call "mature" because they have settled into stable growth rates that are lower than the world average -- are intensely dynamic as competition drives continual innovation and change.
The drivers of airplane demand in each region vary with airline market characteristics. For example, in North America and Europe, demand is more for replacement than for growth and is concentrated on single-aisle airplanes. In Asia Pacific and the Middle East on the other hand, airlines require a higher proportion of twin-aisle airplanes than do airlines in other regions.
Global improvements
At a global level, the number of airplanes in the world fleet grows at an average 3.2 percent each year. At the same time, passenger traffic, measured in revenue passenger-kilometers, grows 4.9 percent per year and cargo traffic, measured in revenue tonne-kilometers, grows 5.4 percent a year. The implication is clear -- the air transport system is constantly becoming more productive.